Earlier this week, the Blades replaced Paul Heckingbottom with the boss who guided them to a ninth-place top-flight finish in 2020, but the Merseysiders maintained their lead.

The hosts fought valiantly and remained more tight, but on minute 37, Virgil van Dijk’s right-wing corner from Trent Alexander-Arnold gave Jurgen Klopp’s team the lead.

After Dominik Szoboszlai’s spectacular save of a second-half shot by Mohamed Salah, the visitors won the game in stoppage time.

As a result, Sheffield United drops to the bottom of the table while The Reds hold onto second place in the standings.

Liverpool will then pay a noon visit to Crystal Palace on Saturday. On Saturday, Sheffield United will play Brentford.

Speaking Point: Liverpool grinds out a tough victory while the Blades demonstrate progress under Wilder

Many United supporters expressed excitement upon Wilder’s return to the dugout for a second stint, and this performance will support the sliver of belief.

The hosts were small, competed fiercely for the shirt, and gave Liverpool serious problems with their counterattack speed and a few late set-piece opportunities.

Even though Liverpool was not at their best, a win like this can help them gain momentum for championship challenges, and Klopp will be happy with a clean sheet as they prepare for more difficult games in December.

Liverpool’s Virgil van Dijk was named player of the match. The Dutchman was a reliable presence at the back once more, but this time he also nearly scored a header and chipped in with an important goal. Additional proof that the center back is getting close to peak performance.

Sheff United’s player ratings are as follows: Foderingham 8, Trusty 7, Brooks 7, Hamer 7, Ahmedhodzic 7, Robinson 7, Bogle 7, Souza 7, McAtee 7, Archer 7, Osula 7. Subs: Lowe n/a, Norwood n/a, Traore 6, Fleck 6.

LIVERPOOL: Konate 6, Endo 6, Szoboszlai 7, Mac Allister 6, Salah 6, Gakpo 6, Diaz 7, Alexander-Arnold 8, Gomez 6, Van Dijk 8*, Kelleher 8, Endo 6, Szoboszlai 7. Nunez 7, Jones 6, Elliott 6, Gravenberch n/a as replacements.